This October is National Animal Safety and Protection Month.

This is the month we dote on our loyal companions!

Our dogs steal our hearts with their antics. We can’t help but bend to their requests – Belly rubs! Treats! Toys of every shape, size, and color!

As we selflessly spoil our pups like family, it’s time to make sure they are covered like family – in our insurance policies!

Ultimately, our dogs and their actions are our responsibility. As dog owners, we need to make sure our ENTIRE family is covered for various situations.

Here are a few tips to keep Fido safe:

Make sure your dog has identification.

Give Fido a collar with a contact information name tag. If Fido travels with you on vacation, change the tag to reflect where you are staying. If you are leaving Fido with family or friends, make a tag with their contact information on it. For example the tag can read: “Fido vacationing at…..”  Also get Fido microchipped for additional identification. These steps will help return Fido to you when he goes exploring.

Cover Fido under your home insurance policy for your sake.

As dog owners we are always liable for our dog. The expectation is that dogs are restrained and controlled at all times. However, dogs may become unpredictable as they protect their territory and family. Fido’s protective instincts can result in negative consequences such as a dog bite.  It is important to protect yourself for such a situation.  Contact your agent to discuss if your dog needs to recorded with the insurance company and if coverage applies for your breed of dog.

Your home insurance policy will also cover the following scenario:

Fido loves to explore! If by some horrible chance he runs off and gets hit by a car, your home policy would cover any car damage sustained in the accident. If you do not have home coverage for the dog, you as the owner are personally liable for any car damage. Even in tragedy we are liable for Fido’s actions.

Cover Fido under your auto insurance policy for his sake.

We love to travel with our furry best friends! In the car, keep Fido safe with a seat belt leash or in a carrier. These actions will help protect him in case of a motor vehicle accident.

Also,contact your agent to discuss if you need to record your pet with your auto insurance policy.  The agent will determine if your policy will help cover any veterinary medical expenses from a motor vehicle accident.

Keep Fido protected with timely vaccinations and medications.

Give your dog the best protection in a gift of health! Make sure all of his vaccinations and needed medicines are up to date. Lyme disease is inching west across the country. Now our vets in Ohio have the resources to vaccinate against this debilitating disease. Check your travel itineraries. If you are heading into active Lyme Disease states, get your pet vaccinated. To help off-set the costs, there are various pet insurances available to dog parents.

Now you have the tools to keep your best friend safe and sound!

The above article is meant to give a general overview of insurance policies; exact coverage and terminology could vary by insurance company.  Please refer to your policy for exact coverage details and terminology.